Myanmar is advancing plans to generate electricity through low-head dams on the Ayeyarwady River. Admiral Tin Aung San, Chairman of the Electricity and Energy Development Commission (EEDC) and Deputy Prime Minister, highlighted these efforts at the EEDC’s first 2025 meeting in Naypyitaw on January 7.
He emphasized the importance of enhancing energy infrastructure to improve citizens’ lives and attract investment. The EEDC, established in December 2024, is tasked with addressing immediate energy challenges and aligning development with modern trends.
Myanmar heavily relies on hydropower and natural gas for electricity. The EEDC stressed the need to expand renewable energy, particularly solar power, while optimizing existing resources. Efforts are underway to boost short-term electricity production through natural gas power plants, including LNG facilities.
Challenges persist, including conflict-related damage to power lines, declining natural gas production, pipeline maintenance issues, and natural disasters like floods. These have disrupted electricity production and distribution, but the Commission is working to overcome these barriers to stabilize supply.
Plans include constructing 16 low-head dams on the Ayeyarwady River, with one priority site under assessment. Solar energy systems are also being incorporated into new projects, with legislative updates planned to attract investments in renewable energy and align with international practices.
To attract investors, Myanmar is upgrading energy infrastructure, including oil refining and gas fields, while reviewing laws to provide better protections and incentives. The government aims to modernize the sector and ensure sustainable growth.
At the meeting, officials and experts discussed solutions to current challenges and outlined future strategies. Collaboration among stakeholders is key to addressing Myanmar’s growing electricity needs and ensuring reliable energy for the future.
